Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
1 CORINTHIANS 16:13-14 NASB
How do we “Act like men”?
There is a pervasive poison in our society that pushes men toward unacceptable behaviors. It is true that there does exist a population of overly aggressive men. But there is now becoming an even larger population of men who have no idea what it means to be a man or a leader.
The answer is to allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in your actions and thoughts. And any thoughts or actions contrary to the fruits of the spirit should be avoided (Galatians 5:22-26). Take the lead on something and own it, and do the hard things that benefits someone outside of yourself. Step out in faith and give God the glory when He brings you through.
Don’t miss it when your faith is being tested and don’t allow false doctrine and “modern manhood” cause you to be something you are not. Act like men. Be strong and bold in your faith. But let all that you do be done in love.
Do man things. Get dirty. Lead by example. Act in manly ways. Don’t be a pushover, and if you are attacked be prepared to defend yourself. Just always make sure you are not the aggressor. Treat all people with respect and love your neighbor as yourself. Help protect those who are unable to protect themself. Give generously and without grumbling. Provide for your family physically, emotionally and spiritually. Hold your brothers in Christ accountable.
And remember to allow your emotions to have a healthy outlet. Find a good friend to vent to and allow them to vent as well. Allow your gym time to be an outlet for reducing stress and frustrations.
Pray about fleshly temptations and find ways to keep yourself busy so you don’t focus on those desires. Tame your flesh. Go for a run, go lift weights, get on a bike, do something to focus your body on something other than the temptations that harm us and others. Find a group of men that will encourage you and make you a better man. And you too can help them grow.
Take care of yourself through meditating on God’s Word, doing Bible studies, reading books to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses, and then learn how to capitalize on those.
Doing this will help all of us to keep ourselves in alignment with who God wants us to be emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Act Like Men.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.
Galatians 5:22-26 NASB
https://bible.com/bible/100/gal.5.22-26.NASB
